April 11, 2021 was the third monthly meeting of the Russian MCF since COVID pandemic restrictions took effect last in March 2020. It was also the first time Zoom was used to include attendance by those in other countries. In addition to 20 in-person attendees, there were online participants from several other countries. An ACCTS staff member participated via Zoom. Here are excerpts from his report.
The meeting took place in one of the first-floor rooms of Dom Cornelius, the new home of the Russian MCF located south of Moscow. The event was opened in prayer, followed by singing with guitar accompaniment. Most of the songs were familiar, and printed lyrics were also available. Several delegates brought greetings from their home churches. The program was as follows:
A local pastor described working in fellowship with Orthodox chaplains and local military units. Another then discussed the responsibilities of the MCF in their outreach to others, using biblical examples. After prayer requests were shared, the group prayed for one another. A female warrant officer in the Russian forces then gave her testimony and provided examples of how she had been able to share her faith with members of her unit. She concluded her message with the marching song Slava Gospoda (Praise the Lord), in which the group joyfully participated. The three-hour meeting concluded with a Communion service. Afterwards, everyone went outside for a group photo with Dom Cornelius in the background, followed by a hot meal, prepared by several of the ladies.
Comments:
* This is the first time I have been able to join the MCF for a meeting since my last trip to Moscow back in early January 2020. At that time, I attended their third annual conference. No conference was held in January 2021, but we are optimistic about holding a conference in January 2022.
* As a result of COVID travel restrictions for most of 2020, The Russian MCF was unable to hold monthly meetings. Communication was through telephone calls, Skype and WhatsApp. With the easing of travel restrictions, the MCF was able to re-start monthly meetings.
* Future monthly MCF meetings will include Zoom capability for those unable to attend. Future meetings will also be scheduled for a Saturday afternoon so as not to compete with Sunday worship services, as this provides a conflict for many delegates who also have church responsibilities. Zoom access enables them to attend the monthly meeting without the requirement (or expense) of having to travel away from their home.
* This meeting was an excellent “trial balloon” to demonstrate Zoom capability, and the MCF now has a better understanding of how Zoom can enhance their ministry. In preparation for next month’s meeting, their leader plans to have his membership become acquainted with Zoom as a ministry platform, and if unable to attend in person, attend using Zoom.
